preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈper-əd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
also
-ˈperd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
: the quality or state of being prepared
especially : a state of adequate preparation in case of war

Examples of preparedness in a Sentence

The military is in a state of preparedness.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Here’s what that looks like Strengthening preparedness: All cities and communities must invest in better disaster readiness, from improving early warning systems to ensuring emergency shelters and support networks are accessible to all. John Hope Bryant, TIME, 18 Jan. 2025 Emergency preparedness is more crucial than ever, and waiting until disaster strikes to have a plan is always too late. Jennifer Jolly, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025 Critics have raised concerns about inadequate preparedness, water shortages and budget cuts as factors hindering the response, with California Democrats facing significant backlash. Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025 Hood said Arkansans should still move forward this week with preparedness in mind. Remington Miller, arkansasonline.com, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for preparedness 

Word History

Etymology

prepared + -ness

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preparedness was in 1590

Dictionary Entries Near preparedness

Cite this Entry

“Preparedness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preparedness. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

preparedness

noun
pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈpar-əd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio) -ˈper- How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
 also  -ˈpa(ə)rd-nəs,
 or  -ˈpe(ə)rd-
: the quality or state of being prepared
especially : a state of readiness for war

More from Merriam-Webster on preparedness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!